Saint John Doan Viet Dat is commemorated on October 28

The Diocese of Kontum commemorates Saint John Doan Viet Dat, a priest martyred on October 28, 1798. Born in 1765 in Dong Chuoi, Ha Nam province, he entered the Dong Chuoi parish to study after his mother agreed to his religious vocation. He studied Latin in the seminary and was ordained a priest in February 1798.

Following his ordination, the bishop assigned Father Dat to serve the Hao Nho parish. Father Chinh, a missionary priest, noted that Father Dat was poor, obedient, and diligent in his pastoral work and studies.

In July 1798, the Tay Son king issued a decree increasing the prohibition of the Catholic faith, leading soldiers to search for priests and destroy churches. After hiding in the mountains with parishioners, Father Dat returned to the village of Mai Le to celebrate Mass at night. Soldiers entered the home during the early morning hours and discovered the liturgical items, leading to his capture.